Tips for Finding Vehicle Assistance When You Travel
Traveling by car provides a unique opportunity for sightseeing, as well as saving on travel expenses. However, driving long distances also presents intimidating risks for breakdowns and other difficulties. Follow these tips for finding vehicle assistance while traveling and ease any worry of unexpected problems.
- Join an auto club or other travel membership. Many groups offer roadside assistance for stranded motorists regardless of their resident state. Assistance includes towing, flat tire changing, bringing gas, as well as locating a repair shop or alternative transportation.
- State police offer emergency assistance. In the event of a breakdown on a major interstate or state highway, many state troopers and other law enforcement officials can be helpful. Lockouts, dead batteries and similar vehicle assistance is offered free to both interstate travelers and state residents.
- Insurance companies offer assistance options. Many companies offer limited roadside assistance as a standard policy feature. Other providers offer an option of adding it to an insurance policy. A call to your insurance agent or authorized third party can bring help from a tow truck or repair shop anywhere in the United States.
- Check service benefits with cell phone providers. Many offer limited roadside assistance to existing customers. Benefits vary, based on phone plans and service providers. Not all cellular providers offer it.
- Subscribe to in-vehicle on call services. With the push of a button or phone call, these service providers can pinpoint a vehicle's location and immediately dispatch aid in the event of an accident or breakdown. Many also offer add-on services such as directions, remote lock release and vehicle tracking in the event of theft.